Teenage pregnancy is referred to the pregnancy of under-aged girls. It can occur from puberty to the age of 19. Early dating or early marriage can give rise to teenage pregnancy. It may be risky for the health of mother as well as baby.

There are several reasons for teenage pregnancy. In some countries, there is a tradition of early marriages. It is one of major causes of teenage pregnancy. Other causes are early dating behavior, adolescent sexual behavior, exposure to domestic or sexual violence and financial constraints.

The symptoms of teenage pregnancy are same as that of normal pregnancy. Some of the commonly found symptoms are missed period, nausea, vomiting, irregular vaginal spotting or bleeding, enlargement and tenderness of the breasts and increased moodiness and drowsiness. However, the teenagers with irregular periods do not notice the symptoms until they start feeling the baby’s movements in the 5th month.

Any teenager with irregular or absent periods or other symptoms is advised to undergo the pregnancy test. Early diagnosis can help the teenagers to adjust physically and emotionally. The pelvic examination made by the gynecologist indicates purple or bluish coloration of vaginal walls, enlargement and softening of the uterus, softening of the cervix. An ultra-sound Sonography is performed to confirm the presence and status of the pregnancy.

Teenage pregnancy can cause extra health risks to mother and baby. Generally, the teenagers do not receive proper prenatal care. Hence, they have a greater risk of pregnancy-related high blood pressure and some other complications. The baby has the risks of low birth weight and premature birth.

The body and reproductive organs of the teenagers are developed enough to bear the pregnancy. Hence, it is better for the teenagers to apply some preventive measures and avoid the pregnancy. They should display the responsible sexual behavior and try to abstain from sex. The teenagers should have a proper knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Marriages in early age should be avoided. It is recommended to use the contraceptives during the sexual intercourse to avoid the pregnancy.